With the recent release of the seventh installment in the well-known Star Wars franchise, it's easy to get caught in all the paraphernalia and toys that ensued from the film's release.

But, this weekend in Saskatoon there was an entirely different toy collection event happening.

The 28th annual farm toy collectible show isn't about a galaxy far, far away, it's connected to the Prairies.

The event brought out 30 vendors from across the three prairie provinces, all of whom met at the German Cultural Centre.

There were more than 30 vendors at the Saskatoon farm toy show. (Eric Anderson/CBC)

"People are displaying. People are selling. It's a good way to find out the latest and greatest, and the oldest, and all that sort of stuff," co-organizer Neil Isley said.

Saskatchewan Weekend host Eric Anderson caught up with Isley and his co-organizer Wayne Gamble to find out what makes toy collecting special.

Beyond the sentimental values of the toys, Isley said the toys are a good way to learn about the history of farming and see replicas of near-ancient tractors that are close to 100 years old.

Collectors who showed up were also able to buy and trade with each other and vendors.

Isley estimated there were a total of 84 tables, which hosted 33 different vendors.

"We're a close-knit bunch of people, all from the three prairie provinces," he said, noting there's similar shows that pop up in Yorkton, Lloydminster, Regina and Lethbridge and Red Deer, Alta.

This John Deere was one of many of the toys on display. (Eric Anderson/CBC)

As to why the shows have a such a cult following, Isley said he thinks it's the connection of the toys with the hobbyists.

"Everyone's here for the same reason — the love of toys — whether they're new or old... If [a person's] a little bit older, it's that tractor they had; if they're younger, it's the tractor they want to have."

Isley would know. He's been going to such shows for the past 27 years. Gamble started the event in 1986.

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